Q.  How important are covering letters for applications? A lot of private sector ask for a covering letter.  Is there a format or something that you follow?  Is there certain things that must be included?

“Career Planning is like a parachute… you need to pack it before you need it.” 

I get a lot of clients talking about wanting to know what there passion is so they can follow it.  I've come to the conclusion that there are a couple of false assumptions around living a passion-filled life, or at least following a career you are passionate about.

Want to change your life?

Well, firstly... you're not alone. 

The Self-Help industry is booming and globally is worth billions of dollars each and every year .  What that tells me is a couple of things. 

Like a good wine your career should be getting better with age.

As we move through life we often lament the loss of our youth.  I mean it's practically encoded genetically that we value youth, vitality and the endless possibilities of our future over the realities of aging, slowing down and having to live with the choices you've already made.

I believe effective communication is everything.  I think that if an individual is able to communicate effectively then there ability to create and access opportunities in life is enhanced.  Their capacity to resolve disputes and negotiate positive outcomes from most situations is almost assured. 

Have you ever been engaged with or by an effective communicator?  You feel like you've been better understood, had an opportunity to state your position or point of view and are crystal clear on the other parties perspective.

I am a 4th year apprentice butcher and have been out of my trade now for more than ten years. I desperately want to finish my trade, is there anyway that I could finish it at tafe, if not could you please point me in the right direction if possible. I also failed tafe.  I was having a hard time back in them days, as most young people do. But since have cleaned my act up. Thank you for your time it is much appreciated.

Fake it till ya make it baby!!

 Is commitment really necessary to succeed in life? 

Ever noticed that your use of language can create real barriers to communication?

It's pretty well understood that the sort of language you use can really alienate an individual or a group.  That's why we're repeatedly told to communicate in simple language, to avoide technical jargon and to keep it simple.